Mining Injury Rate Hit Low in 2025 During Coal Production Push

The injury rate for miners decreased in 2025, even as President Donald Trump pushed for increased coal production.

The total recordable injury rate for the mining industry—the number of injuries relative to hours worked—was 1.74 last year, down from 1.82 in 2024, according to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. That represents a 10-year-low for what’s commonly known as the all-injury rate.

“Keeping miners safe is our top priority, and seeing the rate of injuries decrease is cause for celebration,” said Wayne Palmer, the assistant secretary for mine safety and health.

The number of fatalities reported by MSHA did increase ...